Understand the full cost stack for OPC registration in India in 2026 including DSC, stamp duty, ROC fees, and ongoing compliance. Budget realistically.
A One Person Company is the ideal corporate vehicle for solo founders who want limited liability and corporate identity without taking on partners. In 2026, OPC registration runs entirely through the MCA V3 portal using the same SPICe+ form as a Pvt Ltd, with a single shareholder and a nominee. While the structure is simpler, founders should understand the full cost stack before incorporating.
Cost Components in OPC Registration
- Digital Signature Certificate for the director: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500
- Name reservation through RUN: ₹1,000
- SPICe+ government fees: based on authorised capital, typically ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 for capital up to ₹10 lakh
- Stamp duty on MoA and AoA: varies by state, ₹500 to ₹2,500 for typical small OPCs
- PAN and TAN: included in SPICe+ at no extra cost
- Professional fees for CA, CS, or legal consultant: variable by provider and scope
- Notarisation and printing of incorporation documents: ₹500 to ₹1,500
Post-Incorporation Cost Stack
- Current account opening: typically zero fees or low minimum balance
- Statutory audit by a chartered accountant: annual professional fee
- MCA filings AOC-4 and MGT-7 each year: small ROC fee plus professional fee
- Income tax return: annual professional fee
- GST registration if turnover crosses threshold: zero government fee plus professional support
- Book-keeping and compliance management software: monthly or annual subscription
State-Wise Stamp Duty Variations
Stamp duty on MoA and AoA varies significantly by state of registered office. Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi tend to be on the higher side, while Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and several northeastern states are lower. For an OPC with ₹1 lakh authorised capital, stamp duty ranges roughly from ₹200 in lower-duty states to ₹2,000 in higher-duty states. Plan registered office location partly on this basis.
Ongoing Conversion Cost If You Scale
- If paid-up capital exceeds ₹50 lakh or turnover exceeds ₹2 crore, mandatory conversion to Pvt Ltd
- Voluntary conversion possible after two years of incorporation
- Conversion involves Form INC-6, board and member resolutions, and ROC approval
- Stamp duty implications on increased capital
- Professional fees for conversion typically higher than original incorporation
Conclusion
OPC registration in 2026 is one of the most cost-effective routes to corporate identity for solo founders. Budget for the full incorporation stack including DSC, stamp duty, and professional fees, and plan for ongoing audit and MCA filings. Understanding the costs upfront prevents surprises and supports cleaner financial planning.
